Buying a pure leather product, whether it’s a jacket, wallet, or bag, can be tricky if you don’t know how to identify genuine leather. Many fake leather items look real but they lack the durability, comfort and premium feel of pure leather. In this guide, we will share the top 5 tips to check if leather is pure and genuine before making a purchase.

Why is Pure Leather Important?

Leather products are valued for their durability, style and comfort. Genuine leather items last for years, developing a beautiful patina over time. Fake leather, on the other hand, peels, cracks and deteriorates quickly. Whether you are buying a leather jacket, wallet, or handbag, knowing how to identify real leather will save you money and ensure you get a quality product.

1. Smell Test – The Natural Leather Scent

One of the easiest ways to identify pure leather is by smelling it. Genuine leather has a distinct, rich and earthy scent that comes from natural animal hide.

• Real leather: Has a musky, organic smell that doesn’t fade over time.

• Fake leather: Smells like plastic or chemicals due to synthetic materials used in production.

If the leather has no smell or smells artificial, it is likely not real. Always trust your nose when checking for authenticity.

2. Texture & Touch Test – Feel the Surface

The texture of leather can tell a lot about its authenticity.

• Genuine leather: Feels soft but firm, with an uneven and slightly grainy texture. It may also have natural creases and imperfections.

• Fake leather: Feels too smooth, overly perfect and synthetic.

Run your fingers across the surface—real leather has a natural, inconsistent texture, whereas fake leather is often too uniform. This method works best for leather jackets, bags and wallets.

Additional Tip: Check the Pores

If you look closely at genuine leather, you will see tiny pores. Fake leather often has an artificial pattern that looks too perfect. Genuine leather has an irregular pore structure due to its natural origin.

3. Water Absorption Test – Observe the Reaction

A simple water test can help you identify pure leather in seconds.

• Drop a small amount of water onto the leather’s surface.

• Pure leather absorbs water slowly, as it is a natural material with pores.

• Fake leather repels water and does not absorb moisture at all.

This test is useful for checking wallets, jackets and other leather products. However, do not soak leather in water as it can damage its texture and appearance.

4. Bend & Flex Test – Check for Wrinkles

Leather is naturally flexible and develops wrinkles when bent. Try bending the leather gently:

• Pure leather: Wrinkles and changes color slightly as you bend it. This happens because of its natural elasticity.

• Fake leather: Remains stiff and does not show wrinkles, or it may crack due to the synthetic coating.

This is a great way to check for authenticity in leather jackets and bags. A quality genuine leather jacket will mold to your body over time, becoming more comfortable with each wear.

5. Fire & Heat Test – Burn Smell Check (Be Cautious!)

While this test requires caution, it is one of the most effective ways to differentiate between real and fake leather.

• Genuine leather will not catch fire quickly and smells like burnt hair when exposed to a small flame.

• Fake leather melts immediately and smells like burning plastic.

If you’re unsure, test a small hidden area of the product before performing this test. However, avoid excessive heat exposure as even real leather can get damaged.

Bonus Tip: Price and Brand Matter

While the above tests help, price and brand reputation can also indicate whether the leather is genuine. High-quality leather jackets, wallets and accessories come from reputable sellers who provide guarantees and detailed product descriptions.

When buying online, choose a trusted leather products store like Tifrano. We offer 100% genuine leather jackets and accessories that ensure long-lasting quality.

Conclusion

Knowing how to check for pure leather ensures that you buy only high-quality products that last long. Always test for smell, texture, water absorption, flexibility and heat resistance before making a purchase.

If you are looking for 100% Genuine Leather Jackets, Wallets and Accessories, visit Tifrano – your trusted source for premium leather products.

Stay stylish with authentic leather that lasts for years!